A victory over the Dutch even without Zlatan Ibrahimovic saw the Swedes secure their place in Euro 2012 as best runners-up.This all points to the improvement under Erik Hamren who had achieved domestic success in Denmark and Norway before replacing Lars Lagerback.

He’s changed the way the Swedes approach games too replacing their traditional 4-4-2 with the 4-2-3-1.
They’re still a bit hit and miss though, they meekly surrendered their long unbeaten run against England in a friendly yet absolutely destroyed the Croatians in Zagreb.

Although the formation has changed, the personnel hasn’t.

Andreas Isaksson is still the goalkeeper, Olof Mellberg is still the centre back, with Daniel Majstorovic absent through injury Andreas Granqvist or Jonas Olsson may partner him with Celtic’s Mikael Lustig, Martin Olsson and Behrang Safari all being options for the two full back positions.

The two central midfielders Anders Svensson and Kim Kallstrom are vastly experienced and may start as the holding midfield pairing with Ola Toivonen and Sebastian Larsson on the wings.

Johan Elmander should play the lone striker with Zlatan Ibrahimovic playing just behind him.
ONE TO WATCH – ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC

Ibrahimovic’s talent isn’t in doubt. His career has seen him represent some of Europe’s biggest clubs – Ajax,Juventus,Internazionale,Barcelona and AC Milan make up an impressive CV.
Wherever he’s been he’s scored goals. Blessed with a great first touch, undoubted skill and strength but does have a tendency to drift out of games and his languid style of play often leads to accusations of laziness and a lack of work ethic.

He has however got a reputation as a flat track bully scoring plenty against the weaker teams but not being as strong against the best.

Euro 2012 is a great opportunity to prove the doubters wrong.

HERE COMES D-JUDGE

The Swedes have adopted a new approach to their style and it’s initially paid dividends but they have been inconsistent in the build up to the tournament as Hamren implements his ideas on them.
It’s hard to predict a side that can beat Holland and then lose to Hungary, If the good Sweden can turn up and especially if Ibrahimovic hits form, they can be a really dangerous side.If not they’re one of the also rans.